It can be tempting to leave your CPAP device at home when traveling. Whether you are packing for a holiday or a business trip you may want to use the limited luggage space for other items.
However, just one night without CPAP can see your obstructive sleep apnea symptoms return.
The ResMed AirMini travel device provides frequent travelers with a compact portable machine that takes up less luggage space than a regular machine.
However, originally it was only compatible with its own masks. The introduction of the ZephAir hose connector changed that.
ZephAir Hose Connector
By using a ZephAir hose connector you can connect standard CPAP tubing to the AirMini travel device. Therefore, you can now use your own regular standard mask with this compact travel device.
Finding a suitable mask is a key element in continued compliance with treatment for sleep apnea. Having the ability to wear your preferred mask at night when away from home helps you to stay comfortable with your therapy.
The hose connector is simple to use. It just snaps onto the AirMini travel device’s main hose outlet. When your trip is over, you just have to squeeze the finger tabs located on the hose connector to remove your tubing from the AirMini device. You can then connect your mask back up to your regular bedside device back home.
For less than $20, the ZephAir hose connector can save on the need for a separate ResMed AirMini compatible mask. However, it should be noted that the connector does not work on all AirMini travel devices.
The AirMini HumidX Waterless humidification system is still only compatible with the ResMed AirMini range of masks.
Choosing the AirMini Travel Device
The ResMed AirMini is their smallest device, making it an attractive proposition for those with obstructive sleep apnea who frequently travel. Not only is the device small, but it is also ultra-lightweight, enhancing its travel-friendly credentials. At 30 decibels, this is a quiet device too, registering a sound that is little more than a whisper.
Features of the ResMed AirMini include:
- Dimensions are 5.4” x 3.3” x 2.1”
- Weighs in at just 0.66 lbs
- Three pressure adjustment modes available including automatic pressure adjustments
- Long-lasting air filters
- Allows you to control your therapy through an app via Bluetooth
- Contains an automatic start and stop feature for easy use when away from home
- Exhalation pressure relief allows you to breathe with ease
- FAA approved
Why Compliance With CPAP Is Important When Traveling
CPAP is a leading treatment for the sleep disorder obstructive sleep apnea. A device delivers pressurized air through a mask worn overnight to prevent the collapse of the airways resulting from sleep apnea.
By keeping the airways clear, the pressurized air prevents the breathing pauses that cause you to awake frequently through the night for air.
Without diagnosis and treatment, obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of serious health conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and diabetes.
Therefore, if you are a frequent traveler, having a compact travel device makes it easier to continue with your treatment when away from home.
Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea such as frequent awakenings, snoring and morning headaches can return even after one night without CPAP.
Another of the primary symptoms of sleep apnea is daytime fatigue resulting from poor quality sleep due to frequently awaking for air.
Such sleep deprivation is a surefire way to ruin any trip. Whether you are on the road for a holiday or business, a lack of sleep caused by returning obstructive sleep apnea symptoms can see you tired and feeling drained throughout the day.
This is no way to enjoy a well-earned break, and will not go unnoticed either if you are attending a business meeting.
Poor quality sleep can not only leaves you feeling drowsy but could affect your concentration levels. This will hinder your performance on any business-related trip. It also increases the risk of a traffic accident if you are driving on your trip.
Another symptom of sleep apnea is irritability and mood swings, which will not make you ideal company either on holiday or attending a business meeting or conference.
Final Thoughts
A travel device such as the ResMed AirMini makes compliance with your obstructive sleep apnea treatment easier and more manageable when away from home. This compact, travel-friendly device fits easily into your luggage without taking up too much room.
The ZephAir hose connector allows you to connect your standard tubing and your preferred mask to an AirMini device. This further simplifies traveling with CPAP, ensuring continued compliance and allowing you a symptom-free trip when away from home.
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